It is with a heavy heart that we announce the peaceful passing of David at Health Sciences North (Sudbury) on Tuesday July 8, 2025, at the age of 59 years. David was born in Kingston, Jamaica and emigrated to Canada in 1983. In his youth, he was a nationally ranked decathlete in Canada. For his whole life, he was an enthusiastic angler.
After moving to North Bay in 1998, David started his own thriving business as an online retailer, in the early days of internet commerce, on an ancient computer in his basement. To those who knew him, David was a bundle of positive energy who loved people. He had endless ideas and projects and a loving heart.
David was the beloved husband of Gyllian Phillips, and the loving father to Dwayne Lafayette (Amanda), Thea Lafayette, and Zachary Lafayette. He was the cherished grandfather of Tallia, and Demari. David will be lovingly remembered by his siblings Faye Lafayette, Leford-Lee Lafayette, Steve Lafayette, and Paul (Dalton) Messiah, as well as his mother Mildred Walker. David is predeceased by his father Linton Lafayette.
The family will be receiving visitors at McGuinty Funeral Home (North Bay) on Saturday July 19, 2025, from 11-1 and a Celebration of Life will follow at 1 PM. Donations to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada (www.bloodcancers.ca/) would be gratefully acknowledged by his family.
Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at McGuinty Funeral Home.
